The Montreal Canadiens are on the brink of making a significant move before the March 6 NHL Trade Deadline, with Patrik Laine likely to be at the center of it. Laine, the Finnish sharpshooter, has been sidelined after core muscle surgery, appearing in just five games this season.
Enter the Los Angeles Kings, who are finding themselves in a tough spot despite adding superstar Artemi Panarin to their roster. With Kevin Fiala out for the season due to an injury sustained at the 2026 Winter Olympics, there's chatter about a potential match between the Canadiens and Kings.
Bringing Laine into the fold could provide the Kings with a much-needed spark. His contract is up at the end of the season, which makes the financial aspect of a trade less daunting.
Laine’s agent, Andy Scott, is actively engaging with teams, suggesting a concerted effort to find a new home for the winger. The Kings, having just acquired Panarin but losing Fiala, might be a logical landing spot.
The Kings' recent performances have been less than stellar. After the Olympic break, they suffered a 6-4 defeat to a depleted Vegas Golden Knights team and followed it up with an 8-1 drubbing by the Edmonton Oilers.
With five consecutive losses, four in regulation, their playoff aspirations are dwindling. This is not the outcome they envisioned with Panarin’s arrival.
The atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena has been tense, with fans vocalizing their displeasure towards head coach Jim Hiller. The Kings’ scoring woes, averaging just 2.53 goals per game, highlight the need for offensive reinforcements. Laine, who netted 20 goals in 52 games last season, could be the boost they need.
However, as NHL insider Pierre LeBrun notes, there's a delicate balance to maintain. The Canadiens are exploring options but are wary of disrupting their developing team chemistry. They’re open to a trade that benefits both the present and future, but it must be the right fit.
For the Kings, standing still isn't an option if they aim to compete in the Western Conference playoffs. Adding Laine could be a strategic move to bolster their lineup and reignite their season.